Reducing Everyday Plastics
If you want to make some simple sustainable switches but don’t know where to start, not to worry we have outlined some simple, easy and cheap options that can get you started on reducing plastics in your everyday life.
Don’t forget your bag
Keep your reusable bag by the door or in the car. Forgetting it and having to buy a new one is not only frustrating but it doesn’t solve the problem of reducing plastic.
Look out for none plastic options like fabric, which is washable and hessian which is sturdy and long lasting.
Stay hydrated
Not only is a reusable water bottle a great way of help to reduce the 7 billion single use bottles the UK uses every year. Keeping a reusable water bottle to hand will help you keep track of how much you drink each day and help you stick to that eight glass target.
Recycle and reuse
Do a little research and check what you can recycle in your area. Council to council will vary and adding the wrong thing to the wrong bin is more of a hindrance than a help. If you can’t recycle in your main bin look out for other options in your area. Also remember not everything is single use, reusing containers and jars in particular is an easy way to reduce waste. Storage, growing seeds, preserving, displaying items can all be done with an old container and a bit of imagination.
Glass instead of plastic
Keeping an eye out for your regular purchases but in glass packaging instead of plastic is a super simple switch that can make a big difference. Easier to recycle and reuse glass containers for beauty, cleaning and food and drink will all contribute to a more sustainable household.
Write a list
This is especially important when buying fresh produce, writing a list before you leave home means you don’t end up with yet another lettuce to sit in the fridge. Wasting produce is incredibly bad for the environment and for your bank balance. Only buy what you need and know you’ll use.
Keep it loose
If your food comes in layers of plastic before you’ve even started cooking try to look at other options. Your local greengrocer or butcher might be more sustainable than a big supermarket, shop around for a more environmentally friendly option. When shopping for fruit and vegetables buy loose and avoid unnecessary bags or opt for paper.
Don’t use disposable
Make up removal pads, wet wipes and cotton wool balls can all be replaced with a reusable option that won’t clog the waterways. There are plenty of options from high street to high end that will last years, a great investment that’s great for the planet too.
Use the freezer
Do you know you can freeze cheese? Grate it, pop it in a freezer bag and grab a handful everytime you need to top a slice of toast or enrich a cheesy sauce. Only need half a pepper? Chop the other half and freeze it for later. Less waste is better for you and the planet and will reduce overall plastic packaging usage.
Bring your own
A reusable hot drinks cup can help eliminate the millions of single use cups we use in the UK every year. There are options to suit all tastes and budgets and many have the added benefit of keeping your drink hotter for longer.
Say no
You can say no to plastic straws and plastic cutlery when you are out and about and choose wisely when you venture out on a picnic. Think if you need one or if you can use a bamboo or reusable option instead.